Celebrate Love!

Published in the Sunday Navbharat Times on 12 January, 2025

I simply love the winter season in India. Depending on where you live, you might experience a refreshing shift in the weather. For those in our coastal cities, it’s the time of the year when the usually humid atmosphere turns dry, making it a pleasure to step outside without the oppressive heat. In other regions, the chill sets in, and you may need to bundle up in woollens or even jackets to keep warm as snow gently blankets the landscape. No matter where you are, winter in India is a season to embrace.

The crisp, clean air makes everything feel fresher, and there’s something undeniably romantic about this time of year. The sun rises with golden rays that feel like a warm embrace, offering the promise of a beautiful day ahead. It’s impossible not to feel a touch of romance in the air as you go about your day, whether you’re taking a walk in the morning chill or relaxing by a cozy fire in the evening. As February approaches, we are reminded of love—whether for a partner, family, or friends. Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate these relationships in all their forms.

While Valentine’s Day is often seen as a celebration of romantic love, its origins go beyond that. Named after St. Valentine in Italy, one of the legends surrounding St. Valentine is that he was a 3rd-century priest who defied Emperor Claudius II’s ban on young marriages by secretly uniting couples. For this, he was executed on February 14th. Another story suggests that Valentine befriended or even fell in love with a jailer’s daughter and sent her a note, signed “From your Valentine,” before his death.No matter its origins, Valentine’s Day serves as a reminder to cherish the relationships in our lives and express love—whether romantic, platonic, or familial.

So, as we approach this special day, I thought it would be apt to take a look at some romantic destinations around the world that will inspire your own love story. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, celebrating an anniversary, or simply seeking a romantic escape, these destinations offer a unique and unforgettable experience.

Italy is an obvious starting point, given its connection to the story of St. Valentine. During my trip to Sicily last November with my dear friend Maha, we experienced the island’s enchanting blend of history, culture, and romance. Catania, Taormina, Palermo, Syracuse, and Noto—each city offered its own unique charm. Sicily, with its blend of ancient ruins, sun-drenched hillsides, and coastal beauty, transports you far from reality and makes it feel like paradise on earth.

Sicily’s rich history comes with its own share of love stories and folklore. One particularly interesting tale is that of a young Moorish man who fell in love with a beautiful Sicilian woman. The two began a passionate affair, but the woman soon discovered that her lover had a wife back in his homeland. Overcome with betrayal and heartbreak, she took a drastic step. One night, while the Moor slept, she severed his head and, instead of discarding it, placed it in a pot and planted basil in it—an herb traditionally associated with both love and mourning. The aroma of the basil drew attention, and soon after, local artisans began crafting ceramic pots in the shape of Moorish heads, a tradition that continues in places like Caltagirone and Taormina.

A well-known love story, of course, is that of Romeo and Juliet. Shakespeare’s tragedy has been told and retold in countless versions, but the heart of the story lives on in Verona, Italy. Verona is the city of Romeo and Juliet, where two young lovers defied their feuding families. The city embraces its connection to the famous play, with landmarks like Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta) and the iconic balcony where Juliet is thought to have stood. Verona is affectionately known as the “City of Love” due to its association with this enduring tale. Tourists from around the world visit to capture the magic of Verona, many even posing for photos on the balcony to immortalize their own love stories.

What’s truly special about Verona is the tradition of writing letters to Juliet. People from all over the world send letters to Juliet, seeking advice, sharing their hopes, or expressing their feelings of love. A group of volunteers known as the Juliet Club has been responding to these letters for decades, embodying the spirit of Juliet’s devotion and passion. In addition to the romantic connection to the play, Verona itself is a charming city to explore. Stroll through Piazza delle Erbe, filled with cafes and fountains, or visit the ancient Arena di Verona, where you can enjoy live performances and opera. For a more intimate experience, take a private gondola ride along the Adige River, passing by beautiful bridges and historic landmarks. Wine lovers can indulge in a private wine-tasting tour through the Valpolicella region, renowned for its Amarone wine, with stunning views of vineyards and rolling hills. And don’t forget to make time for a short trip to Lake Garda, where the tranquility of the waters and picturesque lakeside villages offer a perfect romantic retreat.

If we think of the ultimate destination for lovers, Paris definitely stands out. Known worldwide as the “City of Love,” Paris offers an unmatched ambiance of romance. Whether it’s gazing at the Eiffel Tower, exploring Montmartre, or cruising along the Seine River, Paris has long captured the hearts of lovers from every corner of the globe. The city’s romantic legacy is steeped in history, with tales like that of Heloise and Abelard, whose love story became one of the most famous and tragic of the Middle Ages. Despite being forced apart, their passionate letters to each other are still remembered today. Similarly, the love story of Napoleon and Josephine is intertwined with the city. Their residence at the Château de Malmaison, just outside of Paris, was the setting for their luxurious life together. The château remains a museum, preserving the romantic history of their relationship.

Beyond Paris, another lesser-known romantic destination in France is Biarritz. While Napoleon never lived there, his nephew, Napoleon III, and his wife Eugénie transformed Biarritz into a fashionable resort for European royalty. The Hôtel du Palais, built for them in 1854, remains a symbol of opulence and luxury, making Biarritz an ideal destination for couples seeking a unique blend of history and romance.

From Europe, let’s look. T a few other tales and legends around the world. The Great Wall of China is not only one of the most iconic landmarks in the world but also a place steeped in legend. The story of Meng Jiangnu, whose tears over the death of her husband caused a section of the Wall to collapse, speaks to love’s devotion and sacrifice. It’s a poignant tale that makes visiting the Great Wall a deeply romantic experience for couples.

In Jordan, the ancient city of Petra is another must-see destination. Petra’s rose-red beauty holds the legend of a Bedouin who built the city for the princess he loved. The city’s romantic charm continues to captivate travelers, offering a stunning backdrop for any love story.

Of course, no list of romantic destinations would be complete without the Taj Mahal. Located in Agra, this white marble mausoleum was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is the epitome of eternal love, a beautiful and timeless tribute to devotion. Its grandeur and intricate details make it a must-visit for couples seeking a romantic and historical experience. Agra, with its rich history and breathtaking views of the Taj, is the perfect place for those looking for romance closer to home.

Whether you’re envisioning an exotic escape or craving romance closer to home, there’s no shortage of enchanting destinations to celebrate love this Valentine’s Day. From the romantic streets of Verona to the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal, love is truly everywhere. Let the world’s most captivating locations sweep you off your feet, and allow Veena World’s holidays to craft your perfect love story.